NEW South Wales Origin assistant coach Laurie Daley predicts Phil Gould will stay on as Blues rugby league coach. And veteran lock Luke Ricketson believes the Blues will lose their edge over Queensland if Gould isn't at the helm for the 2004 series.

DRAGONS chief executive Peter Doust has confirmed that St George Illawarra back rower Lance Thompson has taken a substantial pay cut so the club can retain Shaun Timmins, Mark Gasnier, and Nathan Blacklock under the salary cap.

FRIDAY night footy kicked off to see the mighty Panthers juggernaut continue to sweep all before them. This time Penrith over came an Origin weary Knights outfit in Newcastle. With a bye still in hand, the Panthers are now looking odds-on to claim the 2003 minor premiership.

FOLLOWING his selection for Friday night?s Australia versus New Zealand Test match Melbourne Storm skipper Stephen Kearney is set to move even closer to Gary Freeman?s record for the most international appearances by a New Zealander.

INAUGURAL Melbourne Storm front-rower Robbie Kearns is set to become the first player to be with the club for ten years after re-signing yesterday in a deal that will keep him involved with the Storm beyond his playing days.